How To Replace A Showerhead
DIY – Learn How To Replace An Old Showerhead
Make Your Bathroom Look Better With A New Showerhead
Materials Needed:
- New showerhead
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Teflon tape (plumber’s tape)
- Soft cloth or rag
- Ladder or step stool (if needed)
- Old toothbrush or scrub brush (for cleaning)
- White vinegar (optional, for cleaning)
Install Your New Showerhead By Following Along
1. Choose a New Showerhead:
Select the type of showerhead that suits your needs and preferences.
- Types of Showerheads: Consider various types, such as fixed, handheld, rain, or multi-spray showerheads. Think about features like water-saving options, massage settings, or filter capabilities.
- Ensure Compatibility: Make sure the new showerhead is compatible with your existing shower arm and plumbing.
2. Gather Your Tools and Materials:
Collect all the necessary tools and materials for the project.
- Adjustable Wrench or Pliers: Needed to remove the old showerhead and tighten the new one.
- Teflon Tape: To ensure a watertight seal between the shower arm and the new showerhead.
3. Remove the Old Showerhead:
Carefully remove the existing showerhead from the shower arm.
- Turn Off the Water (Optional): While it’s not always necessary to turn off the main water supply, you may want to do so to avoid any accidental sprays.
- Use an Adjustable Wrench: Wrap a soft cloth around the shower arm (the pipe coming out of the wall) to protect its finish, then use the adjustable wrench or pliers to grip the base of the old showerhead.
- Unscrew the Showerhead: Turn the wrench counterclockwise to unscrew the old showerhead. If it’s stuck, apply a little more force or use a few drops of penetrating oil to loosen it.
4. Clean the Shower Arm:
Before installing the new showerhead, clean the threads of the shower arm.
- Remove Old Teflon Tape: Peel off any old Teflon tape or debris from the threads of the shower arm.
- Clean the Threads: Use an old toothbrush or scrub brush to remove any mineral deposits or rust from the threads. If needed, soak a cloth in white vinegar and wrap it around the threads to help dissolve any buildup. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
5. Apply New Teflon Tape:
Wrap new Teflon tape around the threads of the shower arm.
- Wrap Teflon Tape: Wrap the Teflon tape clockwise around the threads of the shower arm 2-3 times. This helps create a watertight seal and prevents leaks. Make sure the tape is smooth and not bunched up.
6. Install the New Showerhead:
Attach the new showerhead to the shower arm.
- Hand Tighten First: Screw the new showerhead onto the shower arm by hand, turning it clockwise. Make sure it’s on straight and that the threads are properly aligned to avoid cross-threading.
- Tighten with a Wrench: Once hand-tightened, use an adjustable wrench to give it an extra snug turn. Wrap a cloth around the showerhead to protect the finish and avoid scratching it while tightening. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the fixture or strip the threads.
7. Test for Leaks:
Turn the water back on and test the new showerhead.
- Turn On the Shower: Slowly turn on the water and check for any leaks around the connection point.
- Check for Leaks: If you see any leaks, turn off the water, tighten the showerhead a bit more, and test again. If it still leaks, remove the showerhead and reapply Teflon tape more tightly around the threads, then reinstall.
9. Final Clean-Up:
Finish up by cleaning the work area.
- Clean Up Tools and Materials: Put away your tools and dispose of any old materials or packaging.
- Wipe Down the Area: Wipe down the shower area to remove any water spots or fingerprints.